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I have been a member of BNI since the summer of 2002 and I am now at BNI Mayfair. During that time I have learned many skills, and I think it would be useful for anyone running their own business. BNI doesnt suit every one, as there are several rules to follow, it’s a big commitment, and the meetings occur very early in the morning. But a recent thread on Twitter inspired me to write this post.

For those who don’t know, BNI is a professional networking organisations where members meet weekly for breakfast and help each other by finding new business for each other and making referrals. These are tracked and statistics are carefully kept for attendance, participation and the amount of business passed.

I posted a Tweet with the hashtag (which is a clickable topic on Twitter) #ThatsWhyIDoBNI after doing some quick calculations.

But it’s important to note the other benefits of BNI so I have written a list of 11 things people will get out of membership.

There are a multitude of options and ways to market small businesses on the internet. Nowadays it’s important to think about the whole internet as your “playground” – rather than just your website!

Most people are familiar with the concept of having a website to market their businesses but it’s important to consider social media and blogging as well. Read on for some tips on how to use each effectively.

I was privileged to be asked to write a small article for the Kensington and Chelsea Times. We also placed an ad which was displayed next to the article. We will shortly be posting a blog version of the article – but I wanted to quickly post this to show you how we had our words in print!

Sometimes working late is a necessity, but I’m not sure it’s completely healthy.

Therefore, in order to achieve a proper work/life balance one must find a way to speed through work like a demon.

Understanding what a speed demon is.

Demon is originally a Greek term which means a wise, guardian spirit.

Demons have since evolved into bad things. But a speed demon is both wise and crafty, a mix between old and new demon.

As Michael Jackson says “aint nothing gonna stop me, aint no stop and go, I’m speeding at the midway, I gotta really burn this road” – I think he could be onto something there.

Aint no stop and go.

How true of speed demons, a job is at hand and must be done. This requires some effort, head down, goals in mind, and a finish line that is in sight. Once you start you can only stop once complete!

My advice – LISTS – Lists make the world go round.

Lists mean you remember to get the milk while at the shop and lists can give me a sense of achievement.

Every task I cross off my list gives me a strong drive to complete the next task in record time.

So in order to speed through work like a demon here are some easy steps.

Plan ahead. Decide what really needs to be done in record time. No use in panicking over work that can be done later.

Make a list and cross each task off like a champion.

Ignore the world as much as possible while in speed of light mode.

Make sure a prize is waiting at the end. Whether it’s cake, beer, or simply putting your feet up and finally breathing again. All work is done better when a reward is in sight.

I hope this has helped you in your quest to be a speed demon at work, and I hope with the extra time you create for yourself, you spare a moment to comment on this post, share it around on Twitter and Facebook and other fun stuff.